Journal Article

Improving 3D photogrammetry models through spectral imaging: Tooth enamel as a case study

Mathys, Aurore, Semal, Patrick, Van den Spiegel, Didier, Brecko, Jonathan

2019

Overview

Reflective or translucent materials are a challenge to digitize in 3D. Results are better with a matt coating although objects from museum collections are often too fragile or too valuable to be treated in this way. It is therefore essential that alternative solutions are found. This study analyzed spectral photogrammetry as a possible solution. Spectral photogrammetry is an emerging technique which uses images at different wavelengths to create 3D models. Tooth enamel is a challenging material to digitize. Six sets of teeth were photographed at different wavelengths. The results showed that the quality of the models enamels parts improved when taken with ultraviolet wavelengths whilst models were less accurate when photogrammetry was performed with the red and infrared spectrum. This can be explained by the optical properties of enamel. This study demonstrates that knowing the optical properties of a material beforehand could help future photogrammetric digitization of challenging materials.

• Publisher: Public Library of Science,Public Library of Science (PLoS)
• Subject: Biology and Life Sciences / Cultural heritage / Dental enamel / Dental Enamel - diagnostic imaging / Digitization / Enamel / Enamels / Engineering and Technology / Engineering, computing & technology / Humans / Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Infrared radiation / Ingénierie, informatique & technologie / Medicine and Health Sciences / Methods / multispectral / Museums / Optical properties / Photogrammetry / Physical Sciences / Research and Analysis Methods / Teeth / Testing / Three dimensional models / Three-dimensional imaging / Tooth - diagnostic imaging / Wavelengths